One of Leicester City’s brightest young prospects has been hit with a devastating blow after learning he will be sidelined for several months due to a serious injury.
The Foxes had loaned out several of their academy players this season to gain valuable first-team experience, which they might have struggled to secure at the King Power Stadium.
While some have thrived in their new environments, one promising defender’s progress has been cruelly halted.
Ben Nelson Facing Four Months Out with Injury:
Ben Nelson, a highly-rated 20-year-old centre-back, was sent on loan to Championship side Oxford United this season. After a slow start, he had cemented his place in the starting XI, showing signs of fulfilling his vast potential.
However, disaster struck during Oxford’s 1-0 win over Hull City, with Nelson forced off through injury. Scans have since confirmed the worst.
Speaking to BBC Radio Oxford, Oxford manager Des Buckingham delivered the grim news:
“It was probably the worst outcome we could have asked for. He’s torn a couple of the tendons off of one of his quads at the top of his hip.
“So it’s not going to be a quick return. We’re talking two, three, maybe four months to get him back to where he was and on the pitch.
“I’m devastated for him because he’s starting to really show the player he is and can be at this level. It’s now about making sure we work with Leicester to get him back, get him fit, and help him back on his journey.”
Potential Recall Plans Abandoned;
Nelson’s injury is a significant blow not only to Oxford but also to Leicester’s long-term plans. The youngster, who featured sporadically in the Foxes’ Championship-winning campaign last season, is seen as a potential successor to senior defenders Jannik Vestergaard and Wout Faes.
There had even been discussions about recalling Nelson in January to bolster Leicester’s defensive options. Manager Steve Cooper was in attendance at the game where Nelson suffered his injury, reportedly considering the possibility of integrating him into the first team for the second half of the season.
However, those plans have now been shelved following the latest update. Nelson’s focus will now shift to recovery and rehabilitation as Leicester and Oxford work together to ensure the defender can return stronger and resume his promising career trajectory.